A project to build two new gardens at a prison is to start.

The Nature Effect CIC said work is about to start on the "groundbreaking" initiative Inside Out at HMP Bullingdon.

The project will see a therapeutic and educational garden built for prisoners and another one for families at the visitor centre.

The aim is to reduce substance abuse, violence, and self-harm while improving the wellbeing of prisoners and their families.

The Arncott Wing Garden will promote incentivised substance-free living and provide opportunities for prisoners to develop skills to aid their reintegration into society.

Annie Davy, director at The Nature Effect CIC, said: "We believe that a connection to nature can be transformative.

"Our goal is to create a space where prisoners can engage in purposeful activity, fostering not only personal growth but also a sense of community and belonging on release by connecting them and their families with greenspace projects."

The initiative is supported by NHS England, CAG Oxfordshire, Oxfordshire Community Foundation, The National Lottery, and the Joey Beauchamp Foundation.

Feedback from the prison community reflects the initiative’s positive potential.

One person said: "Having a space with fresh air and sunlight would make a huge difference.

"It’s an incentive to stay drug-free and gives me something to look forward to."

For more information about the Inside Out initiative, visit The Nature Effect website.